Ipsilateral breast radiotherapy in patients with occult primary breast cancer presenting with axillary metastases

Patients with axillary lymph nodes metastases from an occult primary breast cancer are recommended treatment to the ipsilateral breast following axillary surgery to reduce the risk of local relapse. Our study provides further evidence that radiation  to the ipsilateral breast is a safe alternative to mastectomy, to which it is favourable given the cosmetic advantages of conserving the breast. No significant improvement in local control was seen using higher doses of radiotherapy than standard dose. Because of the risk of additional toxicity with increasing dose, standard dose radiotherapy is recommended

Bibliographic Reference:

Barton SR et al.: "The role of ipsilateral breast radiotherapy in management of occult primary breast cancer presenting as axillary lymphadenopathy", Eur J Cancer. 2011 Jun 7. [Epub ahead of print]

Breast Unit, The Royal Marsden Hospital and Institute of Cancer Research, Fulham Road, London SW36JJ, UK